The Minister of Environment, Dr. Bernadette Arakwiye, has emphasized that addressing climate change is one of Rwanda’s top priorities in its development agenda.
She made these remarks on September 8, 2025, while attending a high-level climate conference in Ethiopia, which brought together African leaders to discuss climate change issues affecting the continent.
The conference was held under the theme:
“Advancing a Green Economy and Mobilizing Climate Finance for Africa and the World.”
In her speech to participants, Minister Arakwiye noted that Africa should not only be seen as a continent suffering from the effects of climate change, but also as one capable of finding solutions for a better and sustainable future.
She stressed that achieving this requires strong collaboration between nations.
“We are not gathered here merely because our countries are heavily affected by the impacts of climate change, but as leaders who seek a path towards inclusive, environmentally sustainable development that is resilient to climate challenges,” she said.
Minister Arakwiye pointed out that although Africa contributes only about 4% of global emissions, it bears some of the worst consequences. In fact, African countries spend up to 5% of their GDP on coping with climate change impacts, which can sometimes lead to increased national debt.
However, she highlighted that Rwanda places climate action at the forefront of its development goals.
“For Rwanda, tackling climate change is a top priority in our development journey,” she said.
“The third edition of our Environment and Climate Change Investment Plan part of the Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) shows how Rwanda is mobilizing public institutions to support green projects. This is implemented through our Green Fund (FONERWA), as part of our alignment with the national Vision 2050, which aims to build a resilient, low-carbon economy.”
Minister Arakwiye also acknowledged that despite various challenges, Rwanda is making significant progress through several strategic initiatives such as the Green Fund, Ireme Invest, and others. Recently, Rwanda unveiled a climate finance and green growth plan, which aims to mobilize $2 billion annually until 2050 to support green economic development and climate adaptation efforts
